The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a European-wide automated IT platform designed to replace traditional passport stamping at the external borders of the Schengen Area. It electronically registers entries, exits, and refusals for non-EU nationals, collecting biometric and travel data to streamline border control and ensure compliance with short-stay rules.

The rollout will begin on 12 October 2025, with full implementation across the participating countries expected by 10 April 2026. During this transition, manual stamping may still occur at some crossings.

How Will It Affect Travel to Europe?

Who Is Affected?

• Applies to non-EU nationals, including those requiring a visa and visa-exempt short-stay visitors.
• Does not apply to EU citizens or long-stay or residence permit holders.
• Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting—only a facial image will be collected.

What’s the New Process?

• Upon arrival, travelers will scan passports or travel documents at self-service kiosks or e-gates.
• Biometric data (facial image and fingerprints) and travel details (identity, date and place of crossing) are recorded digitally.
• The system instantly checks this data against EU security databases to identify overstays or use of false documents.
• Passport stamps will be phased out as the digital record replaces them.

What Travelers Can Expect

• You’ll register biometrics during your first entry. On future trips, the system verifies stored data—expediting entry, especially at automated gates.
• Due to the phased rollout, procedures may vary across different crossings until April 2026.

What Are the Benefits of the EES System?

Faster and More Efficient Border Control

Self-service kiosks and biometric verification reduce manual processing times, cutting queues and speeding up border crossings significantly—especially for frequent travelers.

Enhanced Security and Accurate Tracking

The system improves detection of overstays and unauthorized entries, and helps identify fake documents or fraudulent travelers. The centralized data also allows authorities to monitor and respond quickly to irregular migration or security concerns.

Standardized and Reliable

EES replaces inconsistent, manual passport stamping with a uniform, digitally recorded method—minimizing human error and ensuring consistent data collection across all Schengen points.

Long-Term Traveler Convenience

Registered travelers benefit from faster crossings over time as their biometric data remains valid across multiple trips—up to several years depending on national data retention rules (typically up to three years).

Summary

The Entry/Exit System marks a major step in modernizing Europe’s border management—bringing faster, safer, and smarter travel for both authorities and visitors.